Tallgrass prairie walks planned

Three walks through a tallgrass prairie are planned by Jefferson County Conservation during September.

Each “Prairie Perspectives” hike is led by a different presenter, each with his or her own emphasis.

The hikes are at a slow pace, but could be over uneven ground. Participants should expect to be out in the full sun, so a brimmed hat is recommended.

The hikes are free, and no registration is required.

The first hike, “Prairie & The Entomologist,” will be at 5 p.m. Sept. 8. Meet entomologist Moni Hayne at the Jefferson County Park Nature Center for an introduction to some of the common insect species and their role in the prairie ecosystem.

The second hike, “Prairie & the Naturalist,” will be at 5 p.m. Sept. 12. Meet Jefferson County Conservation naturalist Therese Cummiskey at the nature center for an introduction and general view of the prairie, its history and information on some of the grasses and forbs found there.

The third hike, “Prairie & The Vegetation Manager,” will be at 5 p.m. Sept. 21. Jefferson County Conservation vegetation manager Shawn Morrissey, whose duties include managing more than 11,000 acres of timber and prairie, will explain his work with the tallgrass prairie.